The birthing chamber of Athena, Goddess of War and Wisdom, was a flurry of activity as the goddess herself grunted and groaned in pain. Her golden hair was tied back in a practical bun, but even the most practical of hairstyles couldn't detract from the regal beauty of the Goddess of Wisdom.
"Great Goddess, you are doing so well," one of the handmaidens said, wiping away the sweat beading on Athena's forehead.
Athena scowled, "I would be doing better if I didn't have to endure this infernal pain."
The handmaidens exchanged nervous glances, not daring to contradict their goddess. They knew better than to question Athena's strength, but even the Goddess of War couldn't deny the power of childbirth.
The head handmaiden, a stout woman named Eurycleia, asked gently, "Shall we summon Hercules, my lady? He is the father of your children, after all."
Athena's scowl deepened, "I took a vow of chastity, Eurycleia. I broke it once, and that was more than enough."
Eurycleia hesitated, then said, "But my lady, he is the only one who can provide you with strength during your labor."
Athena snorted, "Strength? I am the Goddess of War, Eurycleia. I do not need a mortal man's strength."
Eurycleia raised an eyebrow, "Very well, my lady. But if you change your mind, he is waiting outside."
Athena grunted as another contraction hit, her mind momentarily distracted from her pride. She suddenly felt a surge of power, and with a cry, delivered her first child, a beautiful girl with grey eyes and curly blonde hair.
Athena gasped, "Annabeth...she is perfect."
Eurycleia smiled, "Yes, my lady. She takes after you."
Athena nodded, then tensed as another contraction began. With a final push, she delivered a strong boy with brown hair and grey eyes, "Telemachus," she whispered, "Welcome to the world, my son."
Eurycleia wrapped the babies in soft blankets and handed them to Athena, who cradled them in her arms with a soft smile. For all her strength and power, Athena was still a woman, and the love she felt for her children was overwhelming.
As the handmaidens bustled around her, Athena couldn't help but think about Hercules. She had taken a vow of chastity, but she couldn't deny the attraction she felt towards the mortal man. He was strong, brave, and foolishly charming. But she was the Goddess of War, and she had a duty to her people.
But as she looked down at her children, she couldn't help but wonder if there was room in her life for both duty and love. Only time would tell.
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